When it comes to roof replacement, there are a lot of factors that go into making a decision. One of the biggest is deciding which type of roofing material you should get.
Aside from budget, longevity and effectiveness are also important considerations.
Asphalt Shingles
Roofing shingles are the most cost-efficient roofing material based on upfront costs. However, other factors must be taken into consideration to determine the cheapest roofing materials, such as durability and longevity.
Asphalt shingle roofs are the most popular in North America and are available in a variety of colors and styles. They are lightweight and easy to install, making them a great option for homeowners on a tight budget.
Three-tab shingles are the most basic type of asphalt shingle. They are flat with a uniform appearance and have a lifespan of 20 years. They are the cheapest roofing shingle option but their thin construction makes them more susceptible to blowing off in high wind storms and do not offer as many aesthetic options. Architectural shingles are much thicker and create more definition on the roof to add curb appeal they are also more resistant to the elements and have longer algae warranties.
Metal Roofs
If you want a metal roof but don’t have the budget for standing seam panels, consider aluminum or steel shingles. These shingles are stamped from a sheet of metal and then finished with either a high-quality baked-on coating or mineral granules. They can be fabricated to look like traditional asphalt shingles, wood shakes or even slate and clay tiles. They are usually the mid-range for metal options and can last 30 to 50 years or more.
They are noncombustible, so they are a good choice in areas with frequent lightning strikes and wildfires. They are also well-insulated, helping to reduce energy costs. They are more susceptible to damage from hail, though. Pea or dime-sized hail may not damage them, but large hail can dent or even break them. They are also quite heavy and you need to be sure that your home can support them. They require professional installation these roofs often qualify for a tax credit.
Slate Roofs
Slate is most commonly found on historic homes but it is a beautiful roofing option for contemporary residences as well. While it may not be the cheapest roofing material on an upfront basis, slate is durable and incredibly energy efficient. This roof will likely last 200 years making it a cost-effective investment for homeowners in the long run.
Slate shingles can be either hard or soft with the former being more resilient. Both types are prone to weathering with lighter colors turning gray or brown over time. This weathering will not affect the structural integrity of a slate roof but it can increase maintenance costs.
Slate is also extremely heavy which can add to transportation and installation costs. Additionally, many homes require reinforcement to support the weight of a slate roof. Other roof components that require attention include underlayment, drip edges and gutters. The cost of these components can add up to an additional $50 per roof square.
Clay Tile Roofs
Although they are among the most expensive roof materials upfront, clay or concrete tile roofs save homeowners money over time because they do a better job of regulating home temperatures and help reduce utility bills. Additionally, tile roofs are durable and long-lasting. However, they can be heavy up to 700 pounds per roofing square for clay tiles or 1,000 pounds for concrete tiles and may require structural reinforcement to prevent damage from heavy snow and ice.
Other budget-friendly options include aluminum shingles which are cheaper than asphalt shingles but still more expensive than basic three-tab shingles; wood shakes or composite shakes which are mid-range in price and last longer than shingle roofs and slate roofs which are the most expensive but can also have a lifespan of 100 years or more if properly maintained. Another cost-effective option is a flat roof made of flexible membranes such as EPDM or PVC.
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